NASCAR CEO Explains Controversial Decision To Continue Racing After Kyle Busch’s Tragic Death

Kyle Busch. Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

NASCAR CEO Explains Controversial Decision To Continue Racing After Kyle Busch’s Tragic Death

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Orlando Silva | Last updated May 23, 2026 8:46 PM ET

Kyle Busch tragically lost his life on Thursday. The driver’s cause of death remains unknown, but he was found unresponsive at a driving simulator before being taken to the hospital.

Hours later, NASCAR announced his death. Many fans lamented the news, while others demanded answers about the driver’s death.

While some thought the competition would at least postpone this weekend’s race, they continued with the original schedule. Busch’s crew continued to work and were seen in low spirits on Saturday while rolling his car out of the hauler.

NASCAR CEO Explains Why This Weekend’s Race Will Continue As Planned Despite Kyle Busch’s Death

Speaking with the media, NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell refused to answer health-related questions involving Busch. He also explained why this weekend’s race would go as originally planned.

“I think it’s a fair question, but when you look at what minimal conversations did take place between RCR, ourselves, family, it was – Kyle Busch would probably be pretty pissed off if we didn’t race,” he said. “So we’re gonna honor his memory and make sure people know what he was all about.”

Because I felt it was at least necessary to ask, I asked NASCAR CEO Steve O'Donnell if there was any consideration to postponing the Coca-Cola 600 due to Kyle Busch's death.

"I think it's a fair question, but when you look at what minimal conversations did take place between… pic.twitter.com/kKiy7MrTYH
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) May 22, 2026